The Crucifixion and Madonna and Child Enthroned with Angels, c. 1465-70

Juan Rexach

Rexach was one of the most important fifteenth-century painters in Valencia. His work, while firmly Spanish, contains elements from other artistic centers in Europe, particularly Flanders. The crucified Christ is painted in a style that is reminiscent of Gerard David, and the distant architecture is Northern in origin. The beautiful and typically Spanish composition of the Madonna and Child enthroned with angels became a popular subject in Valencian painting of the period. Fortunately, the late Gothic ogee arches above each compartment have been preserved. It is clear from the framing and arrangement of subjects that this must have been the top central section of a large retable.